Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Everything you need to know 

In general, Cloud Computing is used in IT Industry for purposes like data backup, software development, testing, recovery, etc. But with the advancement of this emerging technology, the service providers are developing solutions using various use cases. From Healthcare to automotive, to education, the entire industrial sector is starting to adopt cloud computing to improve their business and services. In this blog, we will provide you insights into how cloud computing in the healthcare industry is utilized.

 

The usage of Cloud Computing in healthcare is now becoming more common. This is notable because during the pandemic entire healthcare infrastructure was dependent on Cloud Computing.

 

Some of the benefits of cloud computing in healthcare include:

• Low expenses
• Proper patient care (Remotely)
• Collaboration

Statistics

 

Cloud technology is gaining popularity. As per some reports, the cloud computing market is anticipated to hit $71,730.64 million by the year 2027, with a CAGR of 14.12 % i.e. from 2022-to 2027. Hence, we can surely say that healthcare organizations are now accepting the emerging technologies and also investing heavily for technical growth. 

Also Read, Importance of edge Computing for an Enterprise 

What is cloud computing in healthcare?

Cloud computing in healthcare is basically a process of integrating Cloud-based software for low costs, easy data access & sharing, personalized medicine, healthcare apps, and so on.

 

In fact, many healthcare service providers also utilize cloud-based healthcare systems for secure data storage, backups, and maintaining digital records for patients.

 

Here are some specific prospects of cloud computing:

• Accurate analysis and monitoring of data related to diagnosis and treatment of different diseases
• Big storage resources for large datasets for EHR i.e. Electronic Health Records and radiology images
• On-demand access to computing resources
• Sharing of EHR data only among authorized physicians, doctors, and hospitals in different locations around the world, providing timely access to information that is critical for saving lives and reducing the demand for duplicate testing
• Enhanced data analysis
• Impeccable tracking of patients’ healthcare data using cloud computing systems    

Let’s understand different types of cloud computing in healthcare.

Types of Cloud computing in Healthcare

In general, Cloud computing for healthcare involves two types of Cloud computing Models: Distribution and Deployment.

✦ Distribution Model

This model consists of 3 types of services SAAS, PAAS, and IAAS.

1. Software-as-a-Service (SAAS): The providers offer IT Infrastructure where the client deploys their application.
2. Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IAAS): Providers offers an operating system and IT Infrastructure where client eventually deploy their applications.
3. Platform-as-a-Service (PAAS): Here, the provider will provide apps, an operating system, and IT Infrastructure along with other elements inside a user-friendly platform.

✦ Deployment Model 

The deployment model includes 4 types of classification:

1. Private:  Only a specific client can use cloud technology (Internal)
2. Public:  Open to common people
3. Hybrid: The technology integrates multiple clouds with different access options available for users.
4. Community: A particular group of people who share similar preferences and goals can use the technology.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

Let’s analyze some benefits of cloud computing in the healthcare sector.

 

#1 Affordable services for storing healthcare data

 

Every year, Healthcare service providers generate massive amounts of data. These data include details of lab tests, insurance claims, Health Records, and prescriptions.

 

So, by using cloud computing technology a healthcare institute can manage data easily. In addition, cloud computing technologies also provide more data storage, and cloud-based analytical tools and use more data for making data more meaningful.

 

#2 Interoperability is simple 

 

Interoperability simply focuses on setting up data integrations via the entire healthcare system. This integration is possible regardless of the location of data or the origin.

 

Cloud-based solutions allow interoperability in healthcare for the purpose of making patient information available for flexible distribution and gaining insights to provide the best healthcare service.

 

Further, cloud computing in healthcare also allows medical professionals to access patients’ medical data from various sources. They can distribute this data to primary stakeholders, and deliver on-time protocols.

 

 #3 Rise of Telemedicine

 

Nowadays, increasing growth and mass adaption of telemedicine because of cloud computing are visible. Cloud-based apps and telehealth systems assist in sharing healthcare data. They also provide patient health insurance during treatment, prevention & recovery, and also improve availability.

 

In addition, many apps feature more functions like virtual analysis of medicine consumption or doctor’s appointment through video conferencing.  

 

#4 Better patient experience

 

Doctors can easily provide better patient care thanks to cloud computing solutions. At each step of treatment, the doctor is closely involved. So, using real-time access to details like lab tests, medical information, and doctor’s notes, the organization can provide precise and better treatment for patients. In fact, using cloud computing in healthcare reduces redundancy in lab tests (unnecessary tests) and avoids extra prescriptions.

 

#5 Improvements in collaboration 

 

The application of cloud technology in healthcare also improves collaboration. Because the EHR i.e. electronic health record or EMR (medical records) remains in the cloud, patients can simply visit the doctor without carrying any individual records.

 

Furthermore, doctors can share data, check previous consultations with other healthcare professionals, and share data. This saves time for both doctor and the patient. As a result, diagnosis and course of treatment are precisely formed by the doctor.

 

While there are many benefits of cloud computing in the healthcare industry, there are some significant risks as well.

Risks of Healthcare Cloud Computing

Disadvantages of cloud computing in healthcare are as follows:

 

#1 Ecosystem is limited

 

Only adopting cloud computing in healthcare will not make the healthcare industry productive. To truly leverage the technology healthcare organizations will also have to integrate their system with other emerging technologies as well, for example, AI and IoT.

 

#2 Few Experts

 

Generally, it is quite difficult to find a skillful team of developers who can easily integrate the latest technologies in the system, in this case, cloud technology experts for the healthcare domain.    

 

#3 Switching to emerging technologies is difficult 

 

Transitioning from legacy frameworks to cloud technologies is difficult. This is because a complete transformation of the system is required and on top of that training medical staff to use the new technology is a challenge. 

 

#4 Security Challenges 

 

Storing healthcare data is the main reason behind the adoption of cloud computing technology. The perks of cloud computing are there but they carry some security risks also.

 

A major security issue is that when a healthcare company shares data on the server with other companies the remote systems to may fail. Also, they are vulnerable to attacks. These concerns somewhat make organizations hold back from adopting the new technology.

How to eliminate risks in Cloud Computing?

#1 Layout your objectives

 

Firstly, you have to understand the requirement of cloud systems from your business perspective. Businesses have different infrastructure, resources, and ambitions. So, you have to lay out certain objectives to avoid extreme expenses, improve security and have better data protection for your healthcare business.     

   

#2 Prioritize the services you want to improve

 

You can’t just blindly get into cloud computing systems. This means, that you have to analyze your current ecosystem and figure out the obstacles. Once, you have your priorities set you can start with the implementation of cloud computing systems.

 

#3 Investment planning 

 

Adaption of cloud technology demands a significant investment. Hence, you need to figure out the best suitable course for your business. You have to include different types of expenditures. These expenditures will include the payment of tech experts who are involved in the whole process of development.

 

Wrapping up 

Cloud computing implementation can shape the healthcare industry’s future in many ways. If you are looking to improve your healthcare business using cloud computing technologies Webbybutter is here to serve!